Articles by Illana Melzer
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Guest Articles
Thursday
September 10
2015Rising Star or Red Flag?: South Africa’s financial inclusion growth raises questions for the entire industry
South Africa placed second in a recent Brookings Institute study comparing financial inclusion in 21 developing countries – surpassed only by Kenya. But though this has led to celebration in some quarters, there’s a troubling aspect to these findings. Illana Melzer argues that the risks of burgeoning financial access and usage are too significant for beneficiaries, development organizations and donors to ignore.
- Categories
- Education, Impact Assessment
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Friday
December 20
2013The Dark Side of Financial Inclusion: Financial services companies in South Africa are monetizing financial illiteracy
The recently released findings of the 2013 FinScope survey highlight a significant increase in adoption of formal financial products in South Africa. On the face of it, this is good news - access to these products can help people live more financially secure and sustainable lives. But a closer look at the data reveals a more disturbing picture.
- Categories
- Education
